BNSF to hold off on speed limit increases through Devils Lake

Senator John Hoeven announced Wednesday evening that BNSF Railway has agreed to hold off on a plan to increase speed limits for trains traveling through Devils Lake.

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Devils Lake Journal - Devils Lake, ND

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Posted Jul. 31, 2014 at 11:33 AM

Posted Jul. 31, 2014 at 11:33 AM

Senator John Hoeven announced Wednesday evening that BNSF Railway has agreed to hold off on a plan to increase speed limits for trains traveling through Devils Lake.

Hoeven spoke with BNSF Railway Executive Chairman Matt Rose this afternoon to express the community’s concerns about the plan and to request the railroad work with the mayor and city leaders to resolve the issue. Rose agreed to hold off on increasing speed limits through the community, review the railroad’s plan and have further discussions with city leaders before proceeding.

The railroad announced a plan earlier this month to increase the current maximum speed from 30 miles per hour to 60 starting Friday, August 1. BNSF noted frequent track inspections and the classification of the track, which allows speeds up to 60 miles an hour.

Residents, however, have expressed concern about the speed limit increase, citing the track’s path through residential and commercial areas and its proximity to a daycare center, parks, schools and other sensitive locations